Cross-sectional Study to Explore the Knowledge about Oral Hygiene Aids among Dental Interns in India
Abstract
Plaque control is a cornerstone for periodontal maintenance, which can be accomplished via mechanical and chemical methods. Various oral hygiene aids are available to maintain the oral health status. Objective: To assess the knowledge of dental interns about the use of different oral hygiene aids in specific situations. Methods: This cross-sectional, one point-time, multicenter questionnaire-based survey was conducted to collect data from 393 participants (16 men; mean age: 24.6 + 5 years) who were randomly sampled from among dental interns across dental colleges in India. The questionnaires comprised 12 items. Results: Our data analysis revealed that dental interns possess adequate knowledge about the basic dental tools used for maintaining oral hygiene (60.1–79.7%). However, they possess less knowledge about the interdental aids pertaining to specific situations (35.8%) and the dose and frequency of use of chlorhexidine and other oral irrigation devices (32.9%). Conclusion: Although dental interns in India have basic knowledge about oral hygiene tools, there is a need for instilling greater awareness and learning about the use of oral hygiene aids in dental schools to upgrade the knowledge of students.
Recommended Citation
Saquib, S. A., Alqahatani, N. A., N, P., & Lokhande, N. Cross-sectional Study to Explore the Knowledge about Oral Hygiene Aids among Dental Interns in India. J Dent Indones. 2018;25(2): 80-85
